Illawarra bikers ready for annual toy run

Forget the reindeer and sleigh, Santa's travelling with a bit more horsepower under the hood tomorrow.

Hundreds of motorbike riders are expected to join in the annual Bikers' Toy Run from Shellharbour to Wollongong tomorrow morning, carrying with them toys, teddy bears and some Christmas joy for disadvantaged Illawarra children.

Riders will leave from Shellharbour, near the workers' club, about 10.30am and are expected to reach Wollongong's Flagstaff Hill at 11am.

Wollongong Lord Mayor Gordon Bradbery will join the bikers for the ride.

He urged residents to wave to the group along the way, and join in the festivities at Flagstaff Hill.

"The Bikers' Toy Run is an integral part of the council's annual Giving Tree events and I'd really encourage everyone to come along and join in the fun," Cr Bradbery said.

"I'd love to see people also bring a present to put under the city's Giving Tree.

"It's a small gesture, but a present for a disadvantaged boy or girl can make the world of difference to their Christmas."

People can drop off presents at the tree in the council's Burelli Street administration building until December 17.

Money can also be donated through the council's cashiers.

Cr Bradbery reminded people donating presents to not wrap them, as they would be matched to boys or girls.